so i think the concern of the president and his administration is not just to see that assad's regime ends but also to see that there is not a truly violent and horrific civil conflict and a continuing disarray after he leaves office with more death, more destruction, and the absence of democratic institutions. not an easy task. >> no, not at all. senator, let's talk about the buzz that's out there regarding president obama's trip. it was a glowing success in israel but it was for the palestinians. how do you read it? >> well, of course, the objectives and expectations were limited and i think the white house wisely did that because there was no prospect for an immediate breakthrough. but i think the president did a good job at reaching several target audiences. first and foremost, the people of israel whose support will be necessary for any government that takes actions that are needed to bring the conflict to an end. second to the palestinian leadership and to their people in making clear that the united states, while fully committed to israel's security, is also fully committed to